Charles Samuel (Sam) Pinkerton

Charles Samuel (Sam) Pinkerton

1949-2026

Charles Samuel (Sam) Pinkerton passed away peacefully after a brief illness on August 20, 2026, attended by his loving wife, Judy McGuire, and son, Alexander Pinkerton.

Sam was born in Asheville, NC to Estel and Violet Pinkerton. He graduated from Montreat Anderson College and UNC-Asheville where he studied art, philosophy and many other disciplines.

Sam was truly a Renaissance man. To those who knew him, he was a veritable encyclopedia, always surprising people with the depth and breadth of his knowledge and skills. He was an artist, woodworker, general contractor, and supreme handyman. He loved France and studied French independently, often reading books in French to keep up his skills. As a young man he biked all throughout Europe learning about different cultures. In later years, he traveled with friends and family and reveled in the beautiful architecture, especially of churches built hundreds of years ago. Sam loved telling stories of his adventures, and making people laugh with his warm sense of humor. He was a passionate cook who mastered French, Indian, and Asian dishes to the delight of his friends and family.

But most of all, he loved his wife and son. He and Judy shared over 40 years together working tirelessly to provide a loving home for their son Alex. Sam and Alex spent countless hours together working on projects and discussing life. He will be sorely missed.

Sam is survived by his wife, Judy McGuire, his son, Alexander Pinkerton; brother, Thomas Pinkerton, and nieces, Tonna Davis, Riecka Franklin, and Crissy Byas.

Friends and family are invited to attend a celebration of his life at Evans Funeral Service located at 1070 Taylorsville Road SE, Lenoir, NC on Friday, August 28 at 12:30.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Whitnel First Baptist Church, Lenoir, NC.

Evans Funeral Service is honored to serve the family of Charles Samuel (Sam) Pinkerton.